For the second consecutive week the New York Jets struggled, but this time with a different outcome. The Jets defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 28-13, courtesy of two 4th quarter interception returns.
In the pouring rain neither team was able to produce much offensively. Bengals' QB Jon Kitna fumbled on the first possession, DT Jason Ferguson recovered the football and the Jets were in business at the Bengals' 39-yard line. A few plays later QB Chad Pennington connected with WR Santana Moss for a 21-yard completion, moving the Jets to the Bengals' 4-yard line. Three plays later RB LaMont Jordan made his way into the end zone. The first team offense remained on the field throughout the entire first quarter but without any success moving the ball. Pennington finished the day 3/8, 34 yards, 0 INT, 0 TD.
QB Vinny Testaverde made his 2003 preseason debut in the second quarter, he threw only 3 passes, one of which was intercepted.
Both teams continued to struggle offensively as they entered the 4th quarter. The Jets elevated to 14-0 when RB Chad Brinker scored on a 5-yard run. The drive was set up by a brilliant 32-yard punt return by WR Albert Johnson.
Later in the 4th quarter the Bengals scored, and then even had a chance to equalize, but rookie QB Carson Palmer was picked off on two consecutive possessions. First, S Wes Bautovich scored on a 78-yard interception return. Less than 20 seconds later CB Troy Grant picked off another Palmer's pass and returned it all the way for 36 yards.
Next Saturday the Jets will take on the New Orleans Saints in their final home preseason game. The kickoff time is at 8 PM EST.